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[PHOTOS] New Lexus UX Crossover Concept Shocks and Awes with Inside-Out Design

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Lexus UX crossover concept 2016 Paris Auto Show suicide doors

You know what the world needs more of? Crossovers.

If the NX and RX crossovers weren’t enough for Lexus’ lineup, another crossover is on its way to join the family–yet another model aimed at the ever-pursued “hip, wealthy, connected urban youth.” Carrying a signature Lexus moniker that follows the brand’s naming scheme, the Lexus UX crossover debuted today at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

While the idea of yet another crossover in Lexus’ lineup—and another in an over-saturated market—sounds underwhelming, a close look at the UX actually reveals that it’s a very peculiar beast.

Don’t believe us? Take a look at the reveal video below.


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Fantastic or Flabbergasting? You Decide…

While it certainly touts some of the signature design elements of Lexus’ other crossovers, the UX is undeniably…jagged. With a longer snout, lumpier body, and heftier wheels, the UX doesn’t possess the same smoothed-out shapes of the other models in Lexus’ lineup.

And, frankly, that’s a good thing.

Lexus UX crossover concept 2016 Paris Auto Show exterior sideWhile it possesses many of the “we’re just trying to impress you, not actually sell you this” qualities of a concept car that hasn’t been adapted for mass production yet (Did you see those razor-thin side mirrors?), the UX has a uniqueness to it that’s refreshing to see, especially from Lexus.

The UX concept is not just an entry-level crossover to fill a gap in Lexus’ lineup, it’s also a showcase of many other futuristic ideas the automaker is working on. Built on a “inside-out” philosophy, the UX flaunts a consistent X-shaped design pattern in the cabin and across the body (even to the zig-zag tires), working in exposed, transparent portions of the model’s skeleton into its interior design. The UX also showcases the Lexus Kinetic Seat Concept that uses synthetic spider silk material to create a movable, supportive web as cushions.

While the Lexus UX still has more hurdles to pass before it’s ready for the consumer market–and thus a lot of the aspects that make it unique will probably get “sanded down”–hopefully this crossover will retain at least some of its original style (maybe those suicide doors?). Because, inside and out, it’s actually fascinating.


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Photo Gallery: Lexus UX Crossover Concept